I had been smoking for many years but I never got to fully understand the cigarettes market in my country until recently. Living in the UK, I was already aware of how strictly the sale and consumption of cigarettes were regulated. It made me wonder how prices and quality varied from one area to the next.
Lighting up a cigarette can cost you a lot of money in the UK, taxes and other regulations are responsible for the high prices of a pack of cigarettes. Depending on the brand and shop, a packet of 20 cigarettes can cost from around £6 – £14. In comparison, cigarettes in other countries can cost as little as £2.
Furthermore, as of May 2017, the Tobacco and Related Products Regulations has come into effect. This law means that stores may no longer display tobacco products but are forced to keep them behind curtains, as well as prohibit the marketing of cigarettes by not displaying them anywhere ranging from shop windows to digital advertisements.
Besides the pricing of cigarettes, another factor of cigarettes availability is their quality. The UK is known for its high-quality cigarettes due to tight regulations that must be adhered to. Generally, cigarettes from the UK are known for their tight and smooth draw, therefore providing a pleasurable smoking experience. Rolling tobacco, on the other hand, is not as tightly regulated as cigarettes and varies from shop to shop.
Most cigarette brands are available at both supermarkets and convenience stores, although prices may vary. Some convenience stores may charge as much as £15 for a packet of cigarettes. Supermarket prices tend to be much cheaper, ranging from £8- £10.
When it comes to the buying cigarettes online, there are many websites that allow you to buy cigarettes online in the UK. These websites offer a variety of brands and options to choose from, and some even offer prices that are below the average retail price. Online shops usually offer free or discounted shipping and delivery depending on the quantity you want to purchase.
To conclude, the price, availability, and quality of cigarettes vary from shop to shop and country to country. In the UK, cigarettes may be expensive due to taxes and other regulations. Quality varies from shop to shop but is often considered high due to tight regulations. Online shops may offer cheaper prices for cigarettes along with free or discounted delivery. All in all, the cigarettes market in the UK endlessly offers options and it is up to the individual to decide which one is best for them.